Musk described Wheeler as a "supersmart guy" and a "great cultural fit with company."

Musk added that Ahuja and Wheeler would work together for the remainder of the year to make for a smooth transition. He officially starts November 30.

In a statement, Tesla said that Wheeler has an MBA from Harvard Business School and a bachelor's degree in finance from Colorado State University, where he graduated summa cum laude.

"What the Tesla team has achieved in building compelling alternatives in transport and energy is simply incredible. I am so excited to join an amazing team dedicated to such a broad and inspiring mission. Looking forward to jumping into the fast lane," Wheeler said in the same statement.

Musk also announced that Jon McNeill would join Tesla as president of global sales and service.

McNeill is the former CEO of Enservio and, according to Tesla, in 2013 was named "Most Admired CEO" in the small/midsize company category from the Boston Business Journal.